Signage Rules: Honolulu vs Waipahu
How do signage rules rules compare between Honolulu, HI and Waipahu, HI?
Honolulu and Waipahu have similar restriction levels.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's Land Use Ordinance prohibits any exterior signage indicating a home is used for a business. Under ROH § 21-5.350, home occupations must be invisible from the street — no signs, displays, or advertising may be mounted on or near the dwelling.
View full Honolulu rules →Waipahu, HI
Honolulu County
Waipahu residential zones strictly limit home-business signage under ROH Chapter 21, Article 7. Only nameplate signs identifying the resident are generally allowed, with no commercial advertising.
View full Waipahu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Honolulu | Waipahu |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior signs | Prohibited for home occupations | - |
| Residential district sign max | 4 sq ft (non-dwelling use only) | - |
| Illuminated signs | Not permitted in residential zones | - |
| Governing code | ROH § 21-5.350; Ch. 21 Art. 7 | - |
| Enforcing agency | Honolulu Dept. of Planning & Permitting | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Honolulu FAQ
Can I put a small nameplate on my mailbox for my home business?
No. ROH § 21-5.350 prohibits any exterior signage that indicates the residence is used for non-residential purposes, including nameplates advertising a business.
Can I advertise my home business with a sign in my window?
Interior window signs visible from the street may still violate the intent of ROH § 21-5.350. Consult the Honolulu DPP for guidance on specific situations.
Are there any exceptions for certain licensed home businesses?
The ordinance makes no general exceptions. Any home occupation, regardless of type or license, must comply with the no-exterior-sign requirement under § 21-5.350.
Waipahu FAQ
Can I put a neon open sign in my window?
No. Illuminated advertising or commercial open signs are not permitted in residential districts under Article 7, even for a home occupation.
Is a professional nameplate allowed for a home office?
Yes, a modest nameplate identifying the resident or professional occupant is generally permitted under Article 7 residential sign standards.
Compare other topics
See how Honolulu and Waipahu compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool